Hmmm. OP here - this gives me a LOT to chew on. We live in Laurel so Holy Cross already seemed kind of far to drive (though it's first pregnancy so you know I"ll be at it for days and probably not in an urgent/rushed situation). Also considered Sibley but that seemed too far away - but maybe I need to adjust my idea of what is "too far"?? I really appreciate the opnions and frankness and will consider more. If anyone knows of other options in the area slightly closer than GW that seem better, please do let me know. I do work downtown so maybe I'm being rash in not considering GW...how far is too far? What do you all think?

Also thanks for the info that Lockwood is most open to it - if I do stick with HC/CWC, that's a point for staying at that location vs. Georgia or Forest Glen.

I'll add it to the list - thank you! My only concern with that one is that I believe it's K-6, which dumps your kid out into a question mark situation just in time for dreaded middle school, which I feel like is the worst of all for PGCPS.

Hi all-

I could really use advice from those more knowledgeable on how you managed the 'moving toward school' years. We live in Laurel and would like to consider both public lottery and private. For public:

Goddard French Immersion (like everyone else, this is my first choice - I would love it b/c I grew up in French Immersion in Canada, land of great public education)
Goddard Montessori
Hoyer Montessori

I'd really like to pursue the lottery seriously but I also realize it's kind of a nightmare. And of course you also have to pursue (just as seriously, knowing the length of those wait lists) the privates - going to open houses, applying, etc. We're thinking about the following for private:

Bowie Montessori Children's House
Friends Community
St. Jerome
Fairhaven
St. Mary of the Mills
Holy Trinity Episcopal

I'd love suggestions for others if you think I'm missing good ones. So I guess my question is, from those who have been through this, how you balance your attention, your time, the application processes, the wait list wait, etc. I'd love to gather info on this so I don't feel so panicked at the thought of it.

Thanks all in advance for opinions and insights.